Lupita Nyong'o's red carpet looks for The Odyssey have been nothing short of iconic, and her makeup artist, Nick Barose, has been the mastermind behind these stunning transformations. Personally, I think what makes these looks so fascinating is how Barose seamlessly blends historical references with modern glamour, creating a unique narrative for each premiere. Let's dive into the artistry and the stories behind these looks, because there's so much more to them than meets the eye.
London: The Vampy Siren
In London, Nyong'o channeled the allure of Hollywood's first Vamp persona, Theda Bara, with a sultry, dark, and vampy look. What many people don't realize is that this aesthetic isn't just about the makeup—it's a nod to a bygone era of cinema. Barose's use of muted tones, razor-sharp cheekbones, and a black-cherry lip created a timeless yet modern interpretation. The Elevated Glow Balm by Lisa Eldridge, applied to the cheeks and brow bones, added a candlelit glow that I find especially interesting. It's a subtle detail that elevates the entire look, making it both dramatic and ethereal.
Paris: The Feline Goddess
For the Paris premiere, Barose drew inspiration from Eartha Kitt, who played Helen of Troy in a 1950 stage production. Nyong'o's flaming red Chanel dress demanded a makeup look that was equally bold yet complementary. The feline eyes, paired with a deep-red lipstick, were a nod to Kitt's iconic Catwoman persona. What this really suggests is that Barose isn't just a makeup artist—he's a storyteller. The use of gold sparkles on the skin and in the hair added a theatrical touch, making the look both glamorous and narrative-driven.
New York: The Old-Hollywood Screen Goddess
In New York, Nyong'o's regal gold gown harked back to the femme fatales of 1950s and 1960s cinema. Barose created a '60s-inspired look with winged liner, gold details, and feathery lashes. One thing that immediately stands out is his use of T-beauty eyeliners from Thailand, a personal touch that adds authenticity to the look. The sculpted cheekbones, achieved with Hung Vanngo's Tansculpt Bronzing Contour Balm, were a masterclass in contouring for deep skin tones. This raises a deeper question: how often do we see makeup artists tailor their techniques so specifically to their clients' skin tones and cultural backgrounds?
The Art of Skin Prep and Heat-Wave Essentials
What makes Barose's work even more impressive is his meticulous skin prep routine, which is crucial for a press tour that spans multiple cities and climates. He relies on products like the Kalkay Wild Rose Refreshing Toner and the ZIIP Halo Microcurrent Device to ensure Nyong'o's skin looks flawless. In my opinion, this attention to detail is what sets him apart. It's not just about the makeup—it's about creating a canvas that glows from within.
During the summer heat wave, Barose faced the challenge of maintaining full glam under extreme conditions. His go-to products, like Mehron's Touch Up Anti-Shine and Mistine's Matte Setting Spray, highlight his ability to adapt and innovate. If you take a step back and think about it, this is where the artistry truly shines—in the ability to make everything look effortless, even when it's anything but.
Conclusion: The Intersection of Art and Storytelling
Barose's work on Nyong'o for The Odyssey premieres isn't just about makeup—it's about storytelling, history, and cultural homage. Each look is a carefully crafted narrative, blending references from cinema, fashion, and art. What this really suggests is that makeup, when done right, can transcend aesthetics and become a form of expression. From my perspective, this is what makes Barose's work so compelling—it's not just about looking good; it's about telling a story, one brushstroke at a time.
